Digger used to steal ATM in Seaforde

Thieves used a digger to rip the machine out of the wall at Brennans Stores in Seaforde overnight.Considerable damage was caused, police said.A spokesperson added that the Volvo digger involved, which is believed to have been stolen from a local quarry, was later set on fire and destroyed.The stolen ATM has not yet been recovered.Anyone with information on the theft, which took place shortly before 3.45am on Friday, has been asked to come forward to the PSNI by calling 0845 600 8000.South Down MP Margaret Ritchie told UTV she is "absolutely appalled" by the crime.The SDLP politician said: "It is a totally unacceptable situation and appears to me to be a premeditated organised crime."The digger was stolen from the quarry across the road, it knocked at the building to remove the ATM machine about 12 times then it was set alight in the forecourts. Also at the scene we understand they had a lorry or van to remove the ATM machine."One whole end of the building has been damaged. The local community is appalled at this and want to ensure that whoever is responsible for this is apprehended."